The Panaji Police have registered a case against several leaders of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Goa, including state president Valmiki Naik, for allegedly organising an effigy-burning protest outside the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) office in Panaji.
According to police officials, the protest took place on March 5 and was allegedly held without prior permission from authorities. The incident occurred while the Model Code of Conduct was in force, prompting police to take action.
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An FIR was registered following a complaint filed by flying squad officer Umesh Shirodkar. The complaint stated that AAP leaders and supporters allegedly gathered near the BJP office and burned an effigy as part of their protest.
Police said the group allegedly formed an unlawful assembly and carried out the demonstration without obtaining official approval from the administration.
Authorities have booked the accused under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), including Section 163 related to restrictions on unlawful gatherings during enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct.
Officials added that further investigation is underway and statements of those involved will be recorded as part of the probe.
The incident has sparked political reactions in Goa, with supporters and critics debating the protest and the police action that followed.
